With a timely nip of frost and fair sunny weather forecast through the Columbus Holiday weekend, this season’s foliage viewing is expected to be bright and beautiful throughout Vermont.

Foresters expect some high elevation leaf drop from the vigorous line of showers that moved across the Green Mountains Wednesday night, but the cooler air Thursday and Friday will bring a touch of morning frost and bright blue skies for the weekend. In general, most higher elevations and mountain valleys will be at full color or near-peak conditions through the coming week, while mid-stage conditions will continue to brighten in the lower elevations of the Connecticut River Valley and the Lake Champlain Valley, especially across east facing hillsides.

In short, foresters and spotters predict ideal conditions for enjoying the autumn scenery throughout the state during the coming week, and likely the week beyond.

With more peak foliage popping out around the state daily, travelers will benefit most from a route that includes some elevation change and that combines a valley drive with some mountain roads and gap crossings. Vibrant color will be most obvious at higher elevations and in the lower, marshy areas near water, but mid-stage colors will be brightening up considerably along the hillsides and lower elevations.